2013.12.10 EDA Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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compare them to the findings they provided in their previous Hugo Downtown Market Study. 2014 GOAL SETTING Rachel presented the Draft 2013 Annual EDA Report to the EDA which highlighted 2013 events in the City of Hugo which related to economic development. Bryan then began the goal setting session by informing the EDA that the goal setting would be conducted in a slightly different way this year to help facilitate definitive action steps and more specificity in annual goals. Weidt began the conversation by reviewing the 2013 EDA goals. EDA identified what they felt were strengths for the City of Hugo and identified: Proximity to transit, low tax rate, ease of development, strong staff, strong education system, good parks/outdoor recreation opportunities, young growing population, and a financially strong city. Weaknesses identified including a lack of retail options, lack of commercial and industrial land that is "build ready", no interstate frontage to I -35E, and subpar internet service coverage. EDA then outlined goals when considering the state of the city in 2030 which included an interchange at I -35E and 170th, increased availability of public transit, and the expansion of Highway 61. Bryan then asked the EDA to think about specific goals for the EDA to accomplish in 2014. Those goals were highlighted by beginning development for city owned property adjacent to Egg Lake, development of the Sampair Property, improved marketing of land in the City of Hugo, locate and attract additional service industries, and lastly to improve the visibility of the City. It was suggested that an increased visibility of the city could be accomplished by encouraging existing business owners to accept the City of Hugo and include the cities name in mailing addresses and in marketing or promotional efforts. EDA identified a number of action steps for 2014 to achieve their goals. They included continuance of exempting commercial and industrial development from park dedication, hiring of a realtor to advertise city properties, maintaining the current low cost development environment, and review of existing EDA plan. Review of the plan would identify where additional efforts could be made both from EDA members and city staff to further promote the mission of the EDA. ADJOURNMENT Klein made a motion, seconded by Denaway, to adjourn at 7:01 P.M. All ayes. Motion carried.